Cricketing legend drives £2million scanner appeal forward

Cricketing legend Sir Ian Botham is driving forward his support to bring an MRI scanner to the Friarage Hospital.

The TV pundit and prodigious fundraiser got behind the wheel to officially a launch a raffle to win a new car – the latest initiative to help charity campaigners nudge closer to their £2million appeal target.

South Tees Hospitals Charity – in partnership with the Friends of the Friarage – is hoping to sell as many tickets as possible at £2 each with the chance to take home a Peugeot 208.

Sir Ian said: “The Friarage is a great hospital and having their own MRI scanner would enable the clinical teams to provide diagnostic services closer to home, rather than patients having to travel further afield.

“Through Beefy’s Charity Foundation, we like to support local charities and good causes so I’m delighted to lend my support to this campaign and hope that everyone gets behind it to get nearer to that £2million scanner appeal target.”

Head of fundraising Paul Watkins said: “I’d really like to say a massive thank you to the local community who have got behind this appeal so far to bring this essential piece of medical equipment to Northallerton.

“With Sir Ian’s support we hope to give the appeal that further push towards reaching our target. It’s a win-win really as one lucky person will also be going home with a brand new car, possibly for just £2!”

The car – valued at £12,395 – has multifunction colour touchscreen, air conditioning, 15” alloy wheels, front fog lights and blue tooth and was provided by Simon Bailes Peugeot in Northallerton, which will also be selling tickets